Sponsoring Institution: Lewis Center Princeton

Type: Poetry writing competition

Eligibility: Must be in 11th grade

Application Deadline: N/A

Highlight: The Leonard L. Milberg ‘53 High School Poetry Prize, hosted by Princeton University, is a competition created to celebrate exceptional poetry from 11th-grade students in the United States and abroad. Judged by esteemed poets from Princeton’s creative writing faculty, including Patricia Smith and Michael Dickman, the contest encourages young writers to submit up to 3 poems, even if previously published or submitted elsewhere. Winners will receive significant recognition, as well as cash prizes: $1,500 for first place, $750 for second, and $500 for third. 

This competition is meant to foster a love for poetry, urging students to participate out of passion rather than obligation. Results are announced publicly, with only prize winners and honorable mentions being notified beforehand. Check out previous winners’ submissions here. This prestigious contest opens in mid-fall every year, providing an excellent, apt opportunity for budding poets to gain encouragement from a leading academic institution and acknowledgment from those who involve themselves with the literary world!